NFL Rumors: Matt Judon, Patriots Not 'Close' on New Contract amid Extension Talks

The New England Patriots and linebacker Matt Judon are "not currently close to agreeing to a new deal," according to Fox Sports' Henry McKenna.

McKenna reported Judon, who's in the last year of his contract, has requested a new deal. The Patriots' offer, however, doesn't appear to be to his liking.

NFL players are incentivized to take the sure thing thanks to the injury risk they regularly face. Those at Judon's age (31) are even more compelled to prioritize their long-term financial security at the expense of potentially forfeiting more money down the road.

Based on how his 2023 season unfolded, Judon might in this instance be better off waiting to hit the open market. He was limited to four games due to a torn biceps that required surgery.

Between the injury and being on the wrong side of 30, Judon isn't in a strong negotiating position right now. The Patriots, for their part, are firmly in rebuilding mode and probably don't feel a pressing need to extend the aging vets on the roster.

Prior to McKenna's report, Judon alluded to an impasse between he and the team. Responding on X to a fan who said the Pats need to meet his contract demands, he wrote on July 3, "Ion think that's about to happen." He proceeded to follow up with this post:

When Judon put up 28 combined sacks between 2021 and 2022, he was poised for a solid payday on his next deal whether it came from New England or another franchise. The biceps injury has clouded his value a bit instead.

The four-time Pro Bowler almost certainly isn't going to reset the edge-rusher market. A bounce-back campaign in 2024 should at least put him back into position for a nice raise on his current $6.5 million base salary.

Judon is likely weighing that against what has been the Patriots' best offer to date.